TOP JOBS FOR DECEMBER

Stephanie Hafferty outlines the key tasks needed to keep your veg beds and under-cover crops productive through the quietest weeks of the year

- Stephanie Hafferty

INSULATE

Protect external water pipes with insulation and, if possible, turn off the water supply to them to reduce the risk of burst pipes

OPEN UP

Open fruit cages to allow birds free access. Their foraging will help reduce pest build-up, benefiting both the fruit bushes and the birds, who will enjoy muchneeded protein

CUT BACK

Trim hedges while they are dormant, cutting back to the desired size and shape for healthy growth in the spring

TOP UP WATER

Keep putting out water for wildlife. Fresh water is vital for drinking and bathing. Make sure all dishes are clean to reduce the risk of any potental disease transmission

December's festive meals showcase frost-hardy vegetables that thrive in the UK, and can be grown right through the winter, including parsnips, Brussels sprouts and leeks.

Frosty weather significantly improves the flavours of many winter-harvested crops. These frost-hardy plants survive being frozen because they can make their own 'antifreeze', which lowers the freezing point of the liquid in their cells. They do this by breaking down starch into sugars, which prevents their tissues from freezing and makes the veg taste sweeter - a benefit for the plants, and for us!

Parsnips are one of my favourite winter vegetables. Tasty roasted, made into soup and added to stews, they are also delicious raw in slaws. Combine grated, peeled raw parsnips with grated carrots and apples, and mix with your favourite slaw dressing for a healthy, fresh-tasting side, great served with cold leftovers.

STEP BY STEP COVER AND PROTECT